San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle has been officially ruled out for Sunday’s Week 3 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams due to a lingering hamstring injury.
The decision was confirmed on Saturday after Kittle was unable to practice on Thursday and Friday due to persistent soreness in his hamstring, which initially flared up following Wednesday’s practice. Kittle had been listed as doubtful earlier in the week, but after further evaluation, the team downgraded his status to out.
Kittle’s absence will be a significant blow for the 49ers offense, as he remains one of the most dynamic and reliable players on the team.
Through two games this season, Kittle has posted 11 catches for 116 yards and a touchdown, continuing to demonstrate his ability to make plays in both the passing game and as a key blocker in the run game. The 49ers will now look to their backups and offensive depth to fill the void left by Kittle in this important NFC West divisional matchup.
Who Will Step Up in Kittle’s Absence?
With George Kittle unavailable, the 49ers elevated tight end Brayden Willis from the practice squad to provide additional depth behind tight ends Eric Saubert and Jake Tonges. Saubert is expected to start in place of Kittle, with Tonges serving as the backup.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan expressed confidence in Saubert’s ability to handle the starting role. “He’s stepped in well, and if he’s got to do it all, he’s up for the challenge,” Shanahan said. “He’s shown he can help us in the passing game and the run game.”
Saubert has a well-rounded skill set, and while not as accomplished as Kittle, he is known for his blocking and short-yardage receiving capabilities. With Saubert taking on a more prominent role, the 49ers will likely adjust their game plan to ensure he is integrated into both the passing and running schemes effectively.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams Updates
Jake Tonges, who has been a part of the 49ers’ depth chart since last season, will provide relief for Saubert when needed. Meanwhile, Brayden Willis, promoted from the practice squad, offers additional insurance as the team works to cover for Kittle’s absence. Willis, a rookie from Oklahoma, was a standout in college and will look to make an impact in his NFL debut.
Growing Injury List for the 49ers
Kittle’s absence is the latest in a series of injury setbacks for the 49ers. Star running back Christian McCaffrey is currently on injured reserve with Achilles tendinitis, sidelining him for an extended period. Additionally, wide receiver Deebo Samuel is expected to miss at least a couple of weeks due to a calf injury sustained in last week’s game.
This string of injuries has left the 49ers without several key offensive weapons, placing even more pressure on quarterback Brock Purdy and the remaining healthy players to step up.
Purdy, in his second year as the starting quarterback, will need to rely heavily on other playmakers like wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings to carry the load in the passing game. Running backs Elijah Mitchell and Jordan Mason are also expected to see more touches in McCaffrey’s absence.
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The 49ers have shown resilience in the past when dealing with injuries, and Shanahan is confident that the team can continue to execute despite the challenges. “It’s part of the game,” Shanahan said. “We’ve dealt with injuries before, and it’s always been about the next man up. We’re confident in our depth, and I expect everyone to step up when called upon.”
Nick Bosa Expected to Play Despite Injury
In some positive news for the 49ers, star defensive end Nick Bosa, who was listed as questionable with a rib injury, is expected to play against the Rams. Bosa participated in practice on Wednesday but was limited after sustaining the rib injury during a drill later in the week. Despite this setback, reports indicate that Bosa feels good enough to suit up and take the field in this crucial divisional game.
Bosa’s presence will be crucial for the 49ers defense, which will need to apply consistent pressure on Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams Updates
With key players missing on offense, a strong defensive performance will be critical for the 49ers to stay competitive against a Rams team that has shown resilience and offensive firepower in their first two games of the season.
Divisional Implications and What’s Next for the 49ers
The absence of George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey, and Deebo Samuel in Week 3 adds significant challenges for the 49ers as they face their NFC West rivals. The matchup against the Rams carries major divisional implications, with both teams vying for an early-season advantage in the standings.
NFL NEWS & RUMORS: George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams Updates
Following this game, the 49ers will need to closely monitor the status of their injured stars. Kittle, McCaffrey, and Samuel are all vital components of the team’s success, and their return to health will be crucial for San Francisco’s long-term aspirations this season.
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